RESIDENTS are being asked about where a revamped mobile library service will be stopping in the future.

Cheshire West and Chester Council will be introducing a new, modern mobile library later this year, with a new electric vehicle replacing the old one to be cleaner and greener.

Other sustainable features include solar panels and LED lighting, while there will be improvements to services offered, such as an awning for summer activities and onboard Wi-Fi and digital access for customers.

As part of the revamp, the council is asking residents for comments on proposed changes to where the mobile library will be stopping off at various community hotspots.

A proposed rescheduled monthly timetable has been drafted up and mostly sees changes made to the timeslots where the library will be visiting.

However, it is proposed to withdraw the stops on Hare Lane, Guilden Sutton; Booth Road, Hartford; Chapel Close, Saughall; Backford Church and Burwardsley Post Office, as the council says these are not well used.

It is proposed to add new stops at Drays Coffee Shop, Eaton; Five Village Hall, Backford; and Gifford Lea, Tattenhall.

The Mobile Library offers a wide range of stock including adult and children's books as well as audiobooks. It also provides access to the Library Management System, enabling customers to borrow books from across the library service and to make reservations, as well as update their library accounts.

Mobile Library staff can also provide online council information and a council enquiry service. Library members have free access to a wide range of online resources, including eBooks, via the libraries’ webpage.

Council leader and cabinet member for wellbeing, Councillor Louise Gittins said: “It’s really exciting to be getting a new all-electric mobile library vehicle.

"With the introduction of a new vehicle, we would like to take the opportunity to review existing mobile library stops and the activities held at some stops. We want to understand the views of service users, residents, and stakeholders on the proposals for the mobile library service.

"We know how important this service is and I would urge everyone who has a view on our proposals to get in touch to let us know their comments.”

Other proposals include enhancing some stops by adding activities, such as a Storytime or Craft Session in partnership with community centres or village halls; reviewing existing stops on a six-monthly basis.

Full details of existing routes and proposed routes are available at www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/mobilelibraryconsultation

People can give feedback at the above link or by completing a paper survey on the Mobile Library or in any library across the borough, emailing libraries@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk or calling 0300 123 8 123, quoting ‘Mobile Library Service Consultation’

A number of engagement sessions will be held at the mobile stops below:

  • Guilden Sutton Village Hall – Monday 22 August 10.30am-12.00pm
  • Kingsmead Dukes Way – Wednesday 24 August 3-4pm
  • Farndon Memorial Hall – Wednesday 31 August 1.10-1.45pm
  • Ledsham Village Hall – Friday 2 September 9.40-10.10am
  • Burton Village Hall – Friday 2 September 11.10-11.50am
  • Kelsall Community Centre – Friday 9 September 2.40- 4.15pm
  • Elton Community Centre – Thursday 22 September 2.30-4.30pm

The consultation is open until October 2.

The consultation findings will be available on the Council’s website in November 2022 alongside an update on the outcome of any decisions taken and the next steps.